Understanding the processes that occur during tooth decay involves researchers looking at concentrations of minerals such as Calcium present in the structure. X-ray microtomography is now helping researchers at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) gain a deeper understanding of these underlying processes by generating high-resolution images that detail mineral concentrations in the tooth.
The image generation involves scanning the tooth and X-ray detector with high precision over an extended time period. Physik Instrumente linear and rotary stages, chosen for their precision and long term reliability, have been successfully employed in this research work for a number of years.
X-ray microtomography uses X-rays to build up a virtual 3D model of an object from a series of two dimensional scans. The resulting model reveals details of both the structure and density of the tooth. By observing the tooth over time, changes in mineral concentration resulting from further decay can be monitored. This in turn helps a researcher understand what treatments are effective and how treatments can be managed.
With scans taking several hours the mechanical stages used need to be reliable over the long-term. Physik Instrumente high-precision linear stages and a high-precision rotary stage are used in combination to scan the sample and X-ray detector.
One linear stage is used to scan the lead-encased detector while the other two linear stages move the sample in the Z and focal planes.
The exceptional precision, velocity and repeatability of the mechanics are the key to QMUL being able to generate the high resolution images.
The work at QMUL has been ongoing for nearly 20 years with the first stages provided by Physik Instrumente are still in operation.
Thanks to Dr Graham Davis and David Mills of The School of Dentistry at QMUL for permission to publish this article.
